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During a recent trip to Las Vegas, I accidentally discovered that a high tech toothbrush plus saliva could really help patients fight plaque. I believe this brush is the latest and greatest in new technology for patient care. I had some extra time during my trip, and, like many American women, I went shopping. As I ventured down the mall among the kiosks designed to lure shoppers, I discovered a real find. I was actually searching for a miracle hand lotion because my hands are very dry from frequent washings.
I found a kiosk that claimed to have miracle skin care lotion. When I mentioned to the salesperson I'm a dental hygienist, she said, "You might be interested in the new ionic toothbrush, which cleans without toothpaste." Curiosity got the best of me, especially since I write this column about new technology. More importantly, I wanted to know why she thought this toothbrush was worthwhile. The fact that the information was coming from a nonpractitioner and non-dental supplier caught my attention. While I was hoping for an ionic toothbrush demonstration, she instead gave me information about the product and company.
What I discovered
I have known about ionic toothbrushes for years, and they are not a new item to the dental hygiene market. In fact, several of my patients have used them for years. What makes this product different is that it works without batteries and with light and saliva. The brush originated in Japan in 1985, and has been used in that country ever since (I have always been interested in what they do in Japan regarding health). I called the company, Soladey-USA, and what happened next literally changed my and my patients' brushing habits for life. The CEO of Soladey-North America is Erik Powers. In all of my years as a dental hygienist, I have never met a company so passionate about educating...